Gnome Countryside Is A Gnome Wonderland Hiding In Pennsylvania And It’s Simply Magical
By Beth Price-Williams|Published July 17, 2023
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
So many magical places dot the Pennsylvania landscape, many of which we are simply not aware but promise a one-of-a-kind adventure. That includes this gnome wonderland in Kirkwood, Pennsylvania, an oasis for nature lovers, an outdoor playground for children, and an awe-inspiring attraction. From quirky gnomes hiding within the forest to fascinating tales, this unique destination should earn a top spot on every Pennsylvanian’s bucket list.
Nestled in the Kirkwood stretches a magical place filled with gnomes, inspirational words carved in stone, and a majestic forest called Gnome Countryside.
It all started with an overgrown property, an idea, and a former teacher who came dangerously close to losing his eyesight. In a bid to combat diabetes with regular exercise, Richard Humphreys - affectionately known as Mr. Rich - created Gnome Countryside.
His mission was twofold - to compel visitors to take care of the environment and to create a "sense of community in the outdoors." But that isn't all. From his travels through Denmark, Mr. Rich grew fascinated by gnomes.
If you want to experience this unique attraction, book one of the two-hour guided nature tours. Tours kick off with some fun as you'll learn about gnomes through stories and songs.
Along the way, you'll discover gnomes and other surprises. The kiddos will also have the chance to play at a unique playground, making gnome homes and crossing a balance beam.
But the reality is not all of nature is beautiful. One of the biggest threats to the environment is litter. You'll learn all about that at the Valley of the Shadows of Litter, a sobering look at the impact of litter on the environment.
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At the end of your hike, you'll arrive at a gathering circle with benches, surrounded by rocks carved with inspirational words - laugh and hope, among them - for some time to reflect.
Have you been to this gnome wonderland in Kirkwood, Pennsylvania? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! If a day in Kirkland simply isn’t enough, stay overnight at this vacation rental home in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
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